As part of the Touring transformation, the M5 has gained strengthening measures to account for the lack of a rear bulkhead. The rear underfloor is braced with a cross bar and shear panel, with further stiffening elements in the luggage area. As in the saloon, there’s also a shear panel that connects the front strut towers and increases rigidity around the engine bay.
This provides a stronger base for the M5’s suspension, which features bespoke kinematics, geometry and lightweight aluminium components. The bodywork has been pumped up to accommodate wider tracks, too, with the M5 measuring 75mm and 48mm wider at the front and rear respectively compared to the standard 5-series Touring. The sills have been extended to integrate into the swollen arches, while the front and rear bumpers are M-specific.
Typical of an M car, there’s enormous freedom to tailor the M5’s behaviour through its drive modes. The adaptive dampers, powertrain, gearshift speed, steering, brake pedal feel and ESC intervention can all be adjusted, as well as the calibration for the four-wheel drive system. The hybrid system also offers different levels of energy deployment, including a Dynamic Plus setting to deliver maximum power for short periods. Alternatively, you can hold the left-hand shift paddle to activate Boost Control for a temporary hit of extra acceleration.
Inside, the M5 gets standard-fit M multi-adjustable seats and an M-specific control panel on the centre console, as well as a flat-bottom steering wheel. BMW’s Operating System 8.5 infotainment setup gets unique graphics, too. A Bowers & Wilkins sound system, four-zone climate control and M-specific ambient lighting come as standard, and if you fancy towing a caravan with your 717bhp M5, you can order it with a tow hitch.
The M5 Touring is available to order now from £112,500, with deliveries commencing in 2025.